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Virus research provides additional
information but does not provide multiple sclerosis cause
Medical Update Memo
September 3, 1998
Summary
Research linking multiple sclerosis (MS) to a common virus
provides additional useful information to uncovering what triggers
the MS process but has not yet provided the cause for this often
disabling disease of the central nervous system.
Background
Investigators at the University of Wisconsin reported earlier
this week at a medical meeting in Montreal that they had found
evidence of the human herpes virus-6 (HHV-6) in the blood and
tissue of a small number of people with MS.
"This is one of several reports in the
past few years suggesting a possible link between HHV- 6 and
MS, and it adds to the general body of knowledge. However, this
does not mean that HHV-6 is the cause of MS," emphasized
Dr. William J. McIlroy, national medical advisor for the Multiple
Sclerosis Society of Canada.
"It is possible that MS may be triggered
by any one of a number of common viruses in people who are genetically
susceptible to developing the disease. Other viruses under investigation
in Canada, the United States and Europe are those that cause
upper respiratory tract infections, chicken pox and measles,"
he explained.
Several small clinical trials are underway
to determine if anti-viral therapies might be effective against
HHV-6. At this point, there is no evidence that such therapies
will be useful in the treatment of MS.
HHV-6 is a common virus to which most people
have been exposed. It causes roseola, an illness characterized
by short-term fever and a rash, in young children.
Multiple sclerosis is a disease of the central
nervous system. Unpredictable attacks can lead to symptoms ranging
from numbness to mobility problems to paralysis. Canada is a
high risk area for the disease which affects an estimated 50,000
Canadians.
People wishing more information about the
HHV-6 virus and other aspects of MS may contact the Multiple
Sclerosis Society of Canada at 1 800 268-7582.
Disclaimer
The Multiple Sclerosis Society of Canada is an independent,
voluntary health agency and does not approve, endorse or recommend
any specific product or therapy but provides information to
assist individuals in making their own decisions.
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